MehrAchsen

MehrAchsen, often written as Mehrachsen in German, is the term used to describe systems with more than the basic three axes of motion in machinery and automation. In German technical literature, the term denotes multi-axis capabilities of machine tools, robots, and measurement instruments, where motion occurs along multiple linear and rotary axes to reach complex positions and orientations.

In practice, MehrAchsen covers 3-, 4-, 5-axis configurations and higher. A 3-axis machine controls X, Y, and Z. A 4- or 5-axis machine adds rotary axes (commonly labeled A, B, and C) to enable tilting and rotation of the tool or workpiece. Simultaneous five-axis milling allows complex contours and undercuts, while 3+2 or 4+1 arrangements are used for specific tasks that require restricted orientation changes. Higher-axis systems enable greater flexibility in machining and assembly.

Applications for MehrAchsen systems are widespread in manufacturing and research. They are essential in aerospace components, automotive parts, medical devices, turbine blades, and sculptural fabrication. Robotics also relies on multi-axis configurations to achieve precise positioning and orientation in pick-and-place and machining tasks.

Technical considerations include the selection of control systems, kinematic configuration (table/table, table/tilt, or articulated), tooling and collision avoidance, and CAM software compatibility. Calibration, maintenance, and precision management are more complex for higher-axis machines and typically drive up cost and setup time. The development of MehrAchsen capabilities has contributed to more efficient production of complex geometries and closer tolerances across industries.